Rome - Having made over 30 appearances for Serie A club AS Roma prior to his big summer move to the Allianz Arena, FC Bayern München defender is well versed in all things Giallorossi.

In an exclusive interview with bundesliga.com ahead of his new employers' in the group stages of the UEFA Champions League, the Moroccan international captain discussed Roman hospitality, former team-mate Francesco Totti and Bayern's latest tilt at European glory.

bundesliga.com: Bayern face your former club AS Roma in the Champions League on Tuesday. How did you react to the draw back in August?

Medhi Benatia: I expected it really. It was the same day I was officially unveiled as a Bayern player. I was sat with my wife and advisor in the hotel and said I was sure we'll get Roma. And then it happened. I was really pleased.

bundesliga.com: Why?

Benatia: I was happy because it meant I'd get to see all my friends again. I've got a lot of mates at the club like Miralem Pjanic, Daniele de Rossi, Francesco Totti and so on.

bundesliga.com: Bayern travel to the Stadio Olimpico first. What sort of a reception do you think you'll get?

Benatia: The Roma fans might jeer me, but it won't bother me. I know that I always gave my all at Roma. For me personally, it's going to be a really special game.

bundesliga.com: What's the atmosphere like at the Stadio Olimpico?

Benatia: I loved playing there because the fans always put on a show and made a lot of noise. That's how it'll be against us.

bundesliga.com: What sort of game can we expect?

Benatia: It's definitely going to be intense, especially as Roma haven't played in the Champions League for a few years. The Romans have that little bit of added motivation to do well in the competition - you could see that against CSKA Moskva and Manchester City - but we've also got a lot of potential and we're going there to win.

bundesliga.com: Is Francesco Totti Bayern's biggest threat?

Benatia: There are a number of players who'll be taking it seriously, but Totti's definitely the boss. He might be 38, but with such experience, technical ability and intelligence, he can just go on and on.

bundesliga.com: Roma have started the season well. Are they Bayern's biggest rival in the group?

Benatia: That's difficult to say because Manchester City are also a top side with a lot of experience at this level. Roma have strengthened well and they're unpredictable. We know how tough it'll be, but we're optimistic.

bundesliga.com: You know Roma inside out. Will you be giving Pep Guardiola any advice?

Benatia: I think the coach is surrounded by a strong team that always prepares for games perfectly and analyses the opposition. I don't think he needs any tips from me, but if he ever does, I'll be there gladly.

bundesliga.com: What are Bayern's goals in the competition?

Benatia: We've got our eyes on winning the final at Berlin's Olympiastadion on 6 June 2015. In the last five years, Bayern have played in three finals. I'd like to get my hands on the trophy, too. Even my first game as a Bayern player in the competition against Manchester City gave me goosebumps. I want to experience that for as long as possible.

Medhi Benatia was talking to Alexis Menugue

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